Match Recap: Sacramento Republic FC 1, Rangers FC 2

By Sean Steimel, 07/19/14, 3:15PM PDT

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Republic FC score first but are unable to hold their lead and drop second straight friendly.

The first half of the friendly between Sacramento Republic FC and Rangers FC was a physical battle that went back and forth. Rangers FC kept Republic FC keeper Dominik Jakubek busy early and often. Rangers FC had a goal-scoring chance in the 19th minute as forward Kris Boyd got in a one-on-one chance with Jakubek. Boyd tried to loft a shot over the keeper but Jakubek made a diving play to block the ball away .

Republic FC found the score sheet first in the 45th minute. Republic FC midfielder Carlos Martinez controlled the ball 20 yards out after Rangers FC keeper Cammy Bell punched a corner kick directly to him. Martinez took one touch and sent a right footed curling shot up and over the defense and into the back of the net to put Republic FC up 1-0 as the half ended.

Rangers FC wasted no time finding an equalizer and in the 48th minute defender Darren McGregor headed home a Lewis Macleod corner kick to even the score at one.

Jakubek would be tested again in the 65th minute when he came to the rescue of Republic FC defender Harrison Delbridge who was caught in two on one scenario. The crossing pass deflected off Delbridge and Jakubek had to make a quick reaction save to dive for the ball, keeping the score even.

Rangers FC would score the second stoppage time goal of the match, this time in the second half, when Kenny Miller controlled a through ball with his right foot and sent it back across the face of goal to a charging Ian Black. Black sprawled out and connected with his left foot, sending a shot past a diving Jakubek. The stoppage time goal propelled Rangers FC to a 2-1 victory.

“We did well but they deserved to win”, said Republic FC forward Thomas Stewart following the defeat. “Both teams showed up well. It’s a good experience and hopefully the team learns from this.”

Republic FC will take on West Bromwich Albion, an EPL side on Monday, July 21. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Bonney Field. Tickets are still available and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.